New initiatives focus on hybrid crops, local vaccine production, and livestock improvement to drive productivity and exports.
ISLAMABAD: The United States and Pakistan have formalized an agreement to significantly deepen collaboration in the agricultural sector. The partnership, announced following a high-level meeting in Islamabad, aims to leverage joint research and technological advancements to enhance Pakistan’s agricultural productivity, ensure food security, and increase its export potential.
The agreement was reached during talks between Pakistan’s Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, and the U.S. Acting Ambassador to Pakistan, Natalie A. Baker. Both officials emphasized the importance of a robust, science-based approach to tackle modern agricultural challenges.
Key pillars of the extended cooperation include:
- Hybrid Crop Development: Joint research programs will focus on developing resilient and high-yield hybrid crop varieties that can better withstand changing climate conditions and increase per-acre yield.
- Local Vaccine Production: A major push will be made toward local production of animal vaccines in Pakistan to combat common livestock diseases, thereby improving animal health and reducing economic losses for farmers.
- Livestock Breed Improvement: Collaborative efforts will be directed towards enhancing the genetic quality of livestock breeds, aiming for increased milk and meat production to meet growing domestic and international demand.
Minister Hussain highlighted the US government’s significant support, including a reported $15 million allocation through various programs to bolster Pakistan’s agricultural landscape. The collaboration is seen as a pivotal step in modernizing Pakistan’s farming practices and transforming the agricultural sector into a more sustainable and profitable enterprise. Ambassador Baker reiterated the US commitment to supporting Pakistan’s efforts to achieve food security and strengthen its rural economy, underscoring agriculture as a crucial area of mutual interest and cooperation.
